10 Successful K-Pop Groups of All Time

What is K-Pop?

K-Pop, or Korean Pop music, has been a global phenomenon for two decades. It has been steadily increasing as fans, or K-Pop stans, flock to social media platforms to sing its praises. K-Pop has a vibrant, entrancing beat that has created its own subculture of fandom. The genre incorporates a variety of styles, as each K-Pop group has a unique concept, style and story that appeals to its listeners.

From its dance-pop style, to its infectious beats, K-Pop has created some of the most iconic hits. It is characterized by polished, colorful music videos, popular choreography and more unique concepts, which have made these groups into the household names they are today. The rise of K-Pop has made it one of the fastest growing music genres in the world.

Who are Some of the Most Successful K-Pop Groups?

K-Pop continues to produce some of the most beloved groups in the world. Here are 10 of the most successful K-Pop groups of all time.

1. BTS

No list of successful K-Pop groups is complete without mentioning BTS. With their millions of stream on Spotify and YouTube, BTS have become the biggest band in the world. They are the first k-pop group to be nominated for a Grammy award, and even won the top social artist award at the 2017 Billboard awards. BTS also made history in 2019 when they became the first Korean group to address the UN General Assembly.

2. EXO

EXO is another of the most successful K-Pop groups in the world. They achieved their breakthrough in 2013 with their debut with "Growl," and have since released numerous hits, including "Call Me Baby," "Monster," and "Love Shot." EXO has sold over 10 million in album sales, earning several accolades, including a Billboard Music Award. EXO has become a worldwide sensation, with fans from all over the globe.

3. Girls' Generation

Girls' Generation is one of the most iconic K-Pop groups. They debuted in 2007 and rose to fame quickly thanks to their catchy electro pop tunes and dazzling choreography. Girls' Generation's songs, such as "Gee," "Oh," "The Boys," and "I Got a Boy," have become the definitive hits of K-Pop. They have sold over 10 million albums worldwide and have been recognized by several awards shows, including multiple Mnet Asian Music Awards.

4. TWICE

TWICE is a nine-member female K-Pop group that debuted in 2015. They gained immense popularity with their single "Like OOH-AHH," and have released numerous successful songs since, such as "Cheer Up," "TT" and "Likey." They've won multiple awards, including the Disk Bonsang at the 2017 Melon Music Awards. They have also set records for the most YouTube subscribers for a girl group and sold over 4 million albums worldwide.

5. TVXQ!

TVXQ! was one of the original K-Pop groups that truly defined the genre. They debuted in 2003 as a five-member group and were immediate hitmakers with their catchy singles, such as "Hug" and "Mirotic." They have sold more than 11 million albums worldwide and remain one of the most internationally successful K-Pop groups. In 2012, TVXQ! was recognized with MTV International Artist of the Year at the IFPI Hong Kong Top Sales Music Awards.

6. 2NE1

2NE1 was a four-member girl group that debuted in 2009. They are often credited with revolutionizing K-Pop, bringing a whole new level of innovation to the genre. 2NE1's style was a mix of hip-hop and electro pop, which made them stand out in the Korean music scene. Their singles, such as "Fire," "I Am the Best," and "Lonely," have become K-Pop anthems. They have sold over 17 million records worldwide and are considered one of the most influential K-Pop groups of all time.

7. BIGBANG

BIGBANG is one of the most successful K-Pop groups of all time. They debuted in 2006 and quickly rose to fame with their unique blend of rap, hip-hop, and electronic music. BIGBANG's singles, like "Fantastic Baby," "Lies," and "Day by Day," remain some of the most popular K-Pop songs. They have sold over 150 million records and have dominated the Korean music charts, becoming one of the most profitable acts in South Korean music.

8. SHINee

SHINee is a five-member boy group that debuted in 2008. They rose to international fame due to their earnest R&B singles and innovative fashion styles. SHINee's hit songs, such as "Replay," "Lucifer," and "Sherlock," have become staples in the K-Pop scene, and they have sold over 10 million albums worldwide. SHINee has gained multiple awards, including the Digital Bonsang at the 2011 Golden Disk Awards.

9. BLACKPINK

BLACKPINK is a four-member girl group that debuted in 2016. They rose to fame quickly with their hit singles, such as "Boombayah" and "As If It's Your Last," and they have sold over 800,000 albums worldwide. They also received numerous awards from the Melon Music Awards, Golden Disk Awards, and Mnet Asian Music Awards. BLACKPINK is also the highest-charting female K-pop group on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

10. Super Junior

Super Junior is an 11-member boy band that debuted in 2005. They are known for their dance-pop singles and playful concepts, which have made them a staple of K-Pop for over a decade. Their biggest hits include "Sorry, Sorry," and "Mr. Simple," which have become K-Pop classics. Super Junior have sold over 12 million albums worldwide and have won numerous awards, including multiple Mnet Asian Music Awards.

Conclusion

K-Pop has become one of the most popular music genres in the world. These 10 K-Pop groups have defined the genre and made a lasting impact on global music. From BTS to Super Junior, these groups continue to show the power of K-Pop and its ability to create memorable, timeless hits.